Drought in 117 taluks

Karnataka has declared 117 taluks of the 175 taluks in the state as drought-hit following scanty rainfall. Only two weeks ago, 102 taluks were declared as drought hit in the state.

"Another 15 taluks have been categorised as drought-hit following the failure of rains. We will take up relief work in all the 117 taluks soon," Karnataka Revenue Minister Jagadish K Shettar told reporters here.

However, the Karnataka cabinet is yet to accord the drought-hit status to the 15 taluks.

Last week, Union Home Minister Shivaraj Patil had announced a Rs 250 crore relief package to tackle drought and flooding.

"The amount has been released, but the state is yet to receive the 2 lakh tonnes of foodgrains. In fact, we have sought three lakh tonne foodgrains," the minister added.